Members of Milford Haven Youth Council took on a challenging virtual row across the Irish Sea recently - all in support of Sandy Bear Bereavement Charity.

They took on an overnight challenge to row the distance from Milford Haven to Ireland – around 80 nautical miles.

The event took place in July at Milford Haven Youth Centre and brought together young people eager to make a positive change in their community.

Throughout the night, the young people in partnership with youth workers and PCSOs took turns on rowing machines, steadily building up the miles needed to cross the Irish Sea – with persistence, teamwork, and determination from members as they supported one another through the early hours to keep going.

By the morning, the Youth Council had successfully completed the entire distance and raised a fabulous £700 for Sandy Bear.

Sandy Bear Bereavement Charity offers essential support for children and young people in Pembrokeshire who are grieving a loss.

Milford Haven Youth Council is a community youth forum that meets weekly to create and implement projects that benefit young people and the local community.

Over the years, the youth council has carried out various successful projects that are aimed at improving the community, strengthening relationships, and ensuring that young people's voices are heard at both local and county levels.

Members of Milford Haven Youth Council successfully completed an 80-nautical mile virtual rowing challenge to raise £700 for Sandy Bear Bereavement Charity, showcasing teamwork and community spirit.
Members of Milford Haven Youth Council successfully completed an 80-nautical mile virtual rowing challenge to raise £700 for Sandy Bear Bereavement Charity, showcasing teamwork and community spirit. (PCC)

The group actively work within the community to challenge negative views of young people by facilitating various projects, meeting and working with decision makers and being participatory within the community.

Bethany Roberts, Children and Young People’s Rights Office Participation Worker, said: “The youth council’s success virtually rowing to Ireland highlights their dedication to making a difference within the community ensuring young people's voices are being heard.

“The mix of rowing, fundraising, and community involvement made the challenge a memorable and rewarding experience for everyone – they did an amazing job!”